CES 2009: B&W boosts its XT range

A new floorstanding model, the XT8 (pictured), joins the line-up, which is now overhauled to comprise the XT8, the standmount XT2 and a dedicated XTC centre speaker.

All three models should hit the shops in April, and as well as the black finish of the outgoing speakers, the new XTs will also be available in a natural aluminium finish.

Signature technologies
All three models use signature B&W technologies, such as the Nautilus Tapered Tube tweeter, mounted outside the main cabinet to improve integration. The speakers also have the company's familiar woven Kevlar drive unit, complete with Fixed Suspension Transducer technology derived from models further up the B&W range.

In the slimline floorstanding XT8s, which will sell for £2300 a pair, the Kevlar driver handles midrange duties, being partnered with twin 13cm Kevlar/paper bass units.

The standmount XT2s, at £799/pr, are a two-way design, the Kevlar drive-unit here providing both midrange and bass, while the XTC centre speaker, set to sell for £599, uses the Nautilus tweeter and twin Kevlar mid/bass drivers.